Purpose

At the beginning of the school year, I did an activity at our back to school retreat that asked my teachers to consider who or what their why was. I used the following video.  My hope is that they will return to their why when the hours, days, or weeks get hard. Having a purpose is imperative, especially in education.

Four months into the school year I realized that I should have asked myself the same question. Being an assistant principal is an amazing opportunity but it's also complicated. You're constantly being pulled in different directions, addressing different objectives, and trying to figure exactly what you should be doing with your time. When I was a teacher, my objective every day was clear. I might not have any idea what the day would hold, but I had a plan for what was supposed to happen. I had a plan for what I wanted to teach and what I wanted students to learn. I lived my purpose daily, and I loved it. I've missed the structure and daily routine of teaching and the fulfillment that came from interacting with students for a sustained period of time. I've missed cultivating a classroom culture of care, respect, and empowerment. In short, I've had a bit of an identity crisis.

On Wednesday of this week, I had the opportunity to attend our monthly professional development session provided by the district. It was everything I needed and more. The presentation helped me to think about who I am as a leader and what it means to lead with authenticity. The experience also gave me the time to reflect on me leadership style and to unpack why and how I lead. 

This week I also stumbled upon the book Is My School Better Because I Lead It? by Baruti Kafele. (Small confession, my boyfriend's principal actually gave it to him to read, but I stole it). This book is everything I didn't know I needed. It's forcing me to ask myself tough questions, to recognize my shortcomings, and to contemplate next steps. I feel focused, excited, and full of purpose for the first time in awhile. 

I think a part of me will always miss the classroom, but I'm starting to realize that the whole school is my classroom, which is a magnificent opportunity and responsibility.  As I get ready to end first semester, I'm excited about digging deeper into the questions posed in Kafele's book and about figuring out who I am as a leader. 

I'm going to work to make sure that the answer to Kafel's question is yes.